French football legend Zinedine Zidane has officially been named the new head coach of the France national team, ending years of speculation over who would eventually succeed Didier Deschamps.
The French Football Federation confirmed Zidane’s appointment following Deschamps’ departure after France’s semi-final defeat to Spain at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Deschamps leaves as the country’s longest-serving manager after 14 years in charge, during which he guided Les Bleus to the 2018 World Cup title and three major tournament finals.
Zidane, who won the World Cup with France as a player in 1998, has been without a coaching role since leaving Real Madrid for the second time in 2021. The 54-year-old has now signed a contract that will keep him in charge through the 2030 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign.
Speaking after his appointment, Zidane described leading his country as one of the greatest honors in football.
“I’ve often said it: there’s nothing greater than the French national team. So it’s a joy and obviously a great source of pride to become the manager of this French national team,” he said.
He also thanked French Football Federation president Philippe Diallo, the executive committee and the federation for placing their trust in him, while paying tribute to Deschamps and his coaching staff for their years of service. Zidane added that he has “high ambitions” for the national team.
Federation president Philippe Diallo hailed the appointment, describing Zidane as a football icon whose achievements as both a player and coach make him the ideal person to lead France into a new era.
Zidane arrives with one of the most successful managerial records in modern football. During two spells at Real Madrid, he won three consecutive UEFA Champions League titles, two La Liga crowns, two UEFA Super Cups and two FIFA Club World Cups, cementing his reputation as one of the game’s elite coaches.
As a player, Zidane remains one of France’s greatest-ever footballers. He inspired the nation to its first World Cup triumph in 1998 with two goals in the final against Brazil before helping France lift the UEFA European Championship in 2000. His club career also included successful spells with Juventus and Real Madrid, where his unforgettable volley in the 2002 Champions League final remains one of football’s most iconic goals.
Zidane’s first competitive match as France manager will be a UEFA Nations League away fixture against Turkey on September 25, as he begins preparations for Euro 2028 and the road to the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
